Astros to donate $1 million to Ike relief effort

Published 5:30 am, Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Between Astros owner Drayton McLane, the players, the Astros in Action Foundation and the front office staff, the club committed Wednesday to donate $1 million for Hurricane Ike relief efforts.

"Hurricane Ike has had a devastating impact on a significant area of the Houston community and the Gulf Coast region," McLane said. "We care deeply about our fans and our community. One of our missions at the Astros has always been to make a positive difference in the community, and we hope that this donation will assist in what will be a very difficult and lengthy recovery process. I want to particularly commend our players and staff for their willingness to contribute to those in need."

Astros general manager Ed Wade met with the players prior to their game against the Marlins on Wednesday afternoon to discuss the donation, and the players readily agreed to help their neighbors during a difficult time.

“I think this is just a step to show that the Astros are trying to help out any way we can,” Ty Wigginton said.

Unlike previous fundraisers the Astros in Action foundation has held, this one literally is a cause the players understand. After all, Ike brought the devastation and disruption to their own lives, too.

“We want to do whatever we can to help,” said Hunter Pence, whose girlfriend got sick over the last few days while at their apartment without power back in Houston since Ike hit. “It’s tough to get any closer than we are. We can feel it. I stayed in Houston throughout the whole thing. I definitely feel close to all the victims. I can feel their pain somewhat.”

For Roy Oswalt, this effort is as important as any performance on the mound.

“Oh, yeah,” Oswalt said, “anytime you help the community that’s more important than what we do.”